At the Heart of the Province
Did you know that the FQME has two backcountry ski areas just a short drive from the beautiful city of Québec? This is your chance to combine a cultural getaway with an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Enjoy stunning views, family-friendly activities and unique accommodations. With yurts and cabins available, you can easily turn your trip into a full destination weekend.
At a glance
- 2 TO 4 DAYS
- 2 MOUNTAINS
- 4 DIFFERENT SKI SECTORS
- PARTNER ACCOMMODATION
- TOTAL VERTICAL: 913M+/2995’
- LOOP FROM OTTAWA: 10H40, 964KM
- DEPARTURE FROM MONTREAL: 7H20, 607KM
- DEPARTURE FROM Plattsburgh, NY: 9H, 485 MILES

Day 1 – Centre Castor
Located just 30 minutes from Old Québec—a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 400 years of history—Centre Castor is a perfect introduction to backcountry skiing. Situated on the Valcartier military base, Centre Castor offers a wide range of winter activities, including backcountry skiing on Mont Brillant, a former ski resort. It’s an ideal spot for a few relaxed laps at the end of the day or for a first powder skiing experience. With a vertical drop of 254 m, the terrain features several beginner and intermediate runs. FQME members receive 15% off yurt rentals, making it easy to stay a few nights and enjoy the site to the fullest. This is a great, family-friendly destination—why not try other activities during your visit, such as cross-country skiing, fat biking, tubing, or snowshoeing?
Partner accommodation
Yurts nearby!
Centre Castor offers FQME members 15% off winter stays in one of its 10 on-site yurts. Book your stay now at the Valcartier Yurt Village and enjoy a cozy outdoor experience.
Day 2 – Vallée-Bras-du-Nord (Gravité sector)
Easily accessible from the parking lot, the Gravité sector at Vallée-Bras-du-Nord offers several unique couloirs, lines and ridges for intermediate to expert skiers and riders. Some gladed runs are quite open while others require more technical skills. With a wide selection of terrain, there’s more than enough to fill a full day of adventure.
Day 3 – Vallée-Bras-du-Nord (Hauteur and Sommets sectors)
Advanced and expert skiers only! On day three, step up the challenge. After a good night’s rest in one of the on-site cabins, you’ll be ready to tackle more demanding terrain. The Hauteur sector offers steep, technical lines, while the Sommet sector is slightly more accessible, with a mix of intermediate and advanced glades. What makes these sectors truly special is the longer approach (approximately 4 km/2.5 miles), rewarding you with untouched powder. Along the way, cross a frozen lake and take in breathtaking views. In the mountains, glades are carefully maintained for a more engaging skiing experience. If you prefer, you can always continue progressing in the Gravité sector with its many descent options. Why not stay another night?